Best AT&T tablet 2023
AT&T tablets are great when you need a travel companion with cellular connectivity. We’ve gone through all of the options and cherry-picked some of the best.
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01Editor’s ChoiceThe powerful M1 chip and incredible versatility make this the AT&T tablet to beat.
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02Best Android TabletWhat it lacks in fluidity and sheer specs on paper, the S7 FE makes up for it with functionality that is hard to beat.
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03Best ValueFor those who are bored with the design of the base model iPad, the Air is a major step up.
If you’re looking for the best AT&T tablet in 2024, look no further!
While many people no longer buy into contracts with their devices, AT&T tablets are still quite popular. Once you think about it, it does make sense. AT&T is by far the largest network provider in the United States. Oftentimes, you can buy an AT&T tablet for a lower price than with other retailers.
This is thanks to membership perks, affordable contracts, and of course internet bundles that complement the devices. In this guide, we’ll be covering the best that AT&T has to offer when it comes to tablets (though also have a look at our best T-Mobile tablet guide as well).
Best AT&T tablets 2023: products at a glance
iPad Pro 11
Display
11-inch, 2388 x 1668 pixels, 120Hz
Processor
Apple M1
RAM
8GB / 16GB
Storage
128GB/ 256GB/ 512GB / 1TB / 2TB
OS
iPad OS 15
Ports
USB-C
Samsung Galaxy Tab S7 FE
Display
12.4-inch, 2560 x 1600 pixels
Storage
64GB/128GB/256 GB
Memory
4GB/8GB
Processor
Snapdragon 750G
iPad Air (4th Gen)
Display
10.9-inch, 2360 x 1640 pixels
Storage
64 GB/256 GB
Memory
4GB
Processor
A14 Bionic
Apple iPad (9th Generation)
Display
10.2-inch, 2160 x 1620
Processor
Apple A13 Bionic
RAM
3GB
Storage
64GB/ 128GB
OS
iPad OS 15
Ports
Lightning connector, headphone jack
Microsoft Surface Go 3
Display
10.5-inch, 1920 x 1280
Processor
Intel Pentium Gold
RAM
4GB / 8GB
Storage
512GB SSD
OS
Windows 11
We won’t necessarily be looking into the plans or contracts themselves, as we’d much rather focus on the tablets themselves. If you find that a certain AT&T tablet appeals to you, you can then find a plan that suits your needs.
With that said, let’s take a look at our top picks for the best AT&T tablets currently available.
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Best AT&T tablets 2023: our top picks
-
01Editor’s ChoiceThe powerful M1 chip and incredible versatility make this the AT&T tablet to beat.
-
02Best Android TabletWhat it lacks in fluidity and sheer specs on paper, the S7 FE makes up for it with functionality that is hard to beat.
-
03Best ValueFor those who are bored with the design of the base model iPad, the Air is a major step up.
Best AT&T tablets 2023: reviews
iPad Pro 11
Display
11-inch, 2388 x 1668 pixels, 120Hz
Processor
Apple M1
RAM
8GB / 16GB
Storage
128GB/ 256GB/ 512GB / 1TB / 2TB
OS
iPad OS 15
Ports
USB-C
- Superb screen
- Desktop level performance
- Perfect for designers
- Excellent battery life
- Lacks XDR display
It is easy to find the iPad Pro 11 on any ‘best tablets’ roundup. When it comes to sheer performance, high-end design, and battery life it doesn’t get better when it comes to the best AT&T tablets. Well, that is if we disregard the 12.9 model of the iPad Pro.
This tablet packs the superb M1 processor, an ARM chip custom-made in-house by Apple. This allows the iPad Pro 11 to outperform many Windows laptops at this price. That’s a feat that was thought unachievable just a few years back.
All of that power is put to good use. iPad OS has many apps that are great for photo/video editors, content creators, and of course, designers. Pair it with an Apple Pencil and you’ll be hard-pressed to find a better drawing experience.
Battery life is good as well, and it can last all day depending on your usage. While the 12.9 model has a better, more impressive XDR display, it’s not necessarily the best value. That’s because it ends up costing more than the Macbook Air once you configure it.
So, if you’re looking for the best AT&T tablet all-around, then this is the one to buy.
Samsung Galaxy Tab S7 FE
Display
12.4-inch, 2560 x 1600 pixels
Storage
64GB/128GB/256 GB
Memory
4GB/8GB
Processor
Snapdragon 750G
- Battery life is incredible
- Includes S-pen in the box
- Superb bang for your buck
- Supports fast charging
- The display could be slightly better
Samsung is the only company that manages to compete with Apple’s iPad lineup. If you prefer Android, then the Samsung Galaxy Tab S7 FE might be the best AT&T tablet for your needs. The versatility and attention to detail paid here by Samsung are tough to ignore.
First off, this tablet comes with the S-pen out of the box. This is excellent, and it shows that Samsung is aware of the fact that a lot of people buying a tablet these days happen to be designers. The large 12.4-inch screen also serves as the perfect canvas for drawing.
Battery life is good on this tablet, and it also supports fast charging. The Snapdragon 750G will start to show its age sooner rather than later, but it’s decent enough for light work and powerful enough for designers.
The screen quality is good enough but compared to Samsung’s more premium offering, it could be a bit better. Other than that Samsung DeX does wonders for productivity, giving the tablet a desktop-like feel.
All in all, this is the best AT&T tablet if you prefer to use Android.
iPad Air (4th Gen)
Display
10.9-inch, 2360 x 1640 pixels
Storage
64 GB/256 GB
Memory
4GB
Processor
A14 Bionic
- Stunning display
- Great for drawing
- Impressive performance
- No FaceID
- Lacks ProMotion display
It could be argued that in terms of value, the iPad Air is by far the best AT&T tablet to date. While tablet pricing can be a bit all over the place these days, the iPad Air manages to be an impressive package in terms of overall value.
The iPad Air is so good in fact, that it can outperform many Android tablets in its range without issue. Of course, Apple had to omit a few things to price it lower than the Pro lineup. For example, this tablet uses TouchID instead of FaceID, and a high refresh-rate display is also absent.
If you can look past that, you will find a tablet with excellent performance, superb battery life, and a stunning display. It works great with the Apple Pencil, making it a great experience for drawing. While the display might not be as impressive as the Mini-LED on the 12.9-inch Pro, it’s still fairly stunning.
For the money, you’re getting access to all of the incredible iPad Apps, and a premium experience for a fraction of the cost.
This is by far the best AT&T tablet if you value a reasonable price and versatility.
Apple iPad (9th Generation)
Display
10.2-inch, 2160 x 1620
Processor
Apple A13 Bionic
RAM
3GB
Storage
64GB/ 128GB
OS
iPad OS 15
Ports
Lightning connector, headphone jack
- Excellent overall value
- Perfect form factor
- Great for students and artists alike
- Dated design
- 2nd Gen Apple Pencil is not supported
The 9th Gen iPad may very well be the best AT&T tablet when it comes to the budget end of the market. Apple has been dominating the tablet game for a long time, and years of research and engineering allows it to make a very capable tablet at a low cost.
This 9th Gen iPad builds upon the success of its predecessors. Unlike the Pros and the Air, it uses the design of older iPads. This means that it still uses a lightning connector, TouchID for biometrics, and a design with thick bezels.
All of that may not sound appealing, but consider the performance you are getting for the price. The fact that you can write documents, draw on Procreate, and even play the casual game without ever slowing down is a testament to the overall value of this iPad.
It may not be the latest and greatest, but it’s the best AT&T tablet on a budget.
Microsoft Surface Go 3
Display
10.5-inch, 1920 x 1280
Processor
Intel Pentium Gold
RAM
4GB / 8GB
Storage
512GB SSD
OS
Windows 11
- Ultra-portable form factor
- Great for taking notes
- Elegant magnesium build
- Underwhelming performance for the price
- 2nd Gen Apple Pencil is not supported
When searching around for the best AT&T tablet, a Windows tablet might not be your first choice. However, it’s hard to argue with the fact that Windows is more powerful, capable, and versatile than Android or iOS.
That is why the Surface Go 3 may appeal to some people. In terms of the form factor and size, it comes close to an iPad Air with a detachable keyboard. However, Windows 11 allows it to be better in terms of Window management and flexibility.
It is obvious that this AT&T tablet is aimed at people who need portability. Unfortunately, you will be giving up a lot of power in that case. The Surface Go 3 is capable of light work in web apps, editing word documents, spreadsheets, and of course, watching videos.
However, if your workload is a bit more involved and requires actual power, the Surface Go 3 might not cut it. That doesn’t make this a bad product, it’s just one that won’t be for all of you.
All in all, if a cheap Windows AT&T tablet is what you’re after, this is your best bet.
Best AT&T tablet: things to consider
When it comes to the best AT&T tablets out there, there are a lot of things that set them apart. For example, an iPad will obviously be a much different experience than something like a Microsoft Surface device. To make your decision a bit easier, here’s a brief look at what you need to know.
Which OS is right for you?
AT&T tablets can be a bit all over the place when it comes to choices. We’re not just talking about performance or value, the main thing in question here is the operating system. AT&T currently sells iOS, Android, and Windows tablets on its site.
Here’s a quick look at the differences between all three so you can decide what’s right for you.
1. Windows
Windows is the go-to choice for anyone who wants to get work done within a traditional desktop environment. You get access to an unlimited number of apps and services, a familiar interface, and of course, multiple windows.
The last thing is something that Apple is still yet to deliver on with iPads. Of course, Windows tablets/laptops can be hit or miss with battery life and performance, depending on the price.
2. Android
A lot of manufacturers have nearly abandoned their Android tablet lines. Still, a few companies such as Lenovo, Samsung, and a handful of Chinese manufacturers are at it. Android is the most versatile mobile OS, allowing you to download emulators and customize the OS to your heart’s content.
Of course, as it’s more open to customization than iPad OS, it also tends to be less of a fluid experience. Especially since the newer iPads fly through almost any app with ease.
3. iPad OS
iPad OS has come a long way from the days when it was just a version of iOS for iPads. These days, it is surprising just how much you can get done on iPads. Thanks to the excellent selection of apps such as Procreate and Affinity designer the iPad has become an excellent tool for designers.
Of course, Apple still limits iPad OS to a degree, since people still need a reason to buy Macbooks. If you feel like you can work around those limitations, iPad OS is quite good.
Can a tablet truly replace your laptop?
This is a question that comes up every time a new tablet pops up. Different people will have various use cases when looking for the best AT&T tablet. Some will just want one to play casual games, watch videos, and the like.
Others might want to get some light work done on the go when they don’t want to carry their laptop. The answer to this question is a bit complex. If you are a programmer, 3D designer, or someone who does a lot of video editing, then a tablet is not going to replace your laptop.
On the other hand, if you are someone whose work includes writing, researching, working on spreadsheets, or even editing photos casually, you might be able to replace your laptop. In the end, it comes down to your workflow and use case.
Storage, performance, and battery life
All three of these aspects are important when you are buying the best AT&T tablet. Storage can still be a bit of an issue, depending on your usage. If you download a lot of videos, play a lot of games, or just need too many apps, you’ll want at least 128 or 256GBs of storage.
The problem is that most tablets start with 64GBs. You may be able to get away with this, but it won’t be comfortable due to the ever-increasing app sizes.
Performance is important, especially if you are going to be sticking with your tablet for a while. You don’t need a lot of power if you’re just using the tablet for entertainment. If your needs are beyond that, then you might want to look beyond most entry-level tablets.
Lastly, battery life is less of an issue on many tablets these days. Tablets such as the likes of those from Samsung and Apple can last all day. The same isn’t true for many cheaper tablets, so you will want to research that beforehand.
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Best AT&T tablet 2023: Final Word
That wraps it up for our coverage of the best AT&T tablet models in 2022. Considering the work-from-home and remote workplace scenarios these days, it’s no surprise that cellular tablets are more popular than ever.
You can still get work done on most tablets these days, given they are portable and flexible. Cellular coverage gives you the ultimate in portability.
Best AT&T tablet FAQs
Can I use my tablet as a phone with AT&T?
You can indeed use the NumberSync app to link up your phone with your tablet on the AT&T network to use it as a phone, although you will still need a phone.
Will a AT&T phone SIM card work in a tablet?
Most US networks, including AT&T, will not let you use your phone SIM in a tablet, which will only accept data-only SIMs.
In many international networks however, this is possible.
